A FAMILY claims a man continues to roam free because the police have failed to charge him for raping their 14-year-old niece in Lautoka.

The man, who the family has identified as a bus checker, allegedly raped the Year 9 student in February. The girl gave birth to a baby boy on November 4.

The victim’s aunt said she had taken on the responsibility of caring for her niece’s education because her mother was in Vanua Levu.

She said earlier this year, she noticed her niece was having morning sickness, and a medical check-up revealed she was two months pregnant.

The victim shared her traumatic experience when questioned.

In April, the family lodged a report with the Lautoka Police Station and organised counselling for the young girl.

“We were also advised that when my niece gives birth, to take a DNA test of the baby and the suspect.”

The aunt said one day, her family saw the man in town and took him to the police station, where he was questioned.

Frustrated because of ‘police inaction’ she raised the issue with the Department of Social Welfare last week.

“If the Lautoka police do not help us, we will get assistance from Social Welfare to fight this case because getting a DNA test is not easy,” she said.

Yesterday, police confirmed receiving a report of the alleged rape.

“We can confirm that a report is there from April this year,” police spokesman Wame Boutolu said.

“Necessary steps were taken, and relevant statements were recorded, including that of the suspect. He denied the whole incident. Our investigators are working this case, trying to find evidence before laying any charges,” he said.

Mr Boutolu said the police assured the family that an investigation into the incident was continuing.